Bogota, Colombia, has once again drawn attention with an unprecedented cultural and religious initiative. In December 2025, the Colombian capital inaugurated its first Nativity scene carved entirely out of ice, a project that combines art, faith, and an unusual sensory experience in a city where temperatures rarely evoke winter landscapes. The installation, titled “From the Miracle to Ice” (Del Milagro al Hielo), quickly became a meeting point for worshippers, the curious, and visitors seeking new ways to experience the Christmas season.
The Nativity scene is located at San Cayetano Parish, part of the Diocese of Fontibon, in the Carvajal neighborhood of the Kennedy district. Since its opening on Dec. 5, 2025, the installation has attracted attention both for its originality and for the spiritual message it conveys through an artistic format rarely seen in Colombia.
A Nativity scene carved from more than 15 tons of ice in Bogota, Colombia
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The “Del Milagro al Hielo” initiative stands out for its ambitious staging. The Nativity scene is made up of life-size ice sculptures, crafted with a high level of detail. More than 15 tons of ice were used in its construction, posing a significant technical challenge in terms of production, preservation, and assembly.
According to press reports, the creation of the Nativity scene took approximately one month of continuous work, with daily carving and assembly sessions. For nearly four weeks, specialized artists and technicians worked with ice blocks designed to withstand Bogota’s climatic conditions (regularly, between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius all year long).
The process unfolded in several stages. First came the production of the ice, with large, compact blocks created in refrigerated chambers. This was followed by the artistic carving, during which specialized sculptors shaped the traditional Nativity figures, such as Joseph, Mary, the Baby Jesus, animals, and angels.
The pieces were then transported and assembled at Villa Cielo, a space located in the garden of the Virgin Untier of Knots, within the parish complex. Finally, lighting and ambiance were added, with LED lights and nighttime effects that highlight the ice forms and create a contemplative atmosphere.
The project was organized by San Cayetano Parish, with technical support from Hielo Iglu, a company specializing in this type of installation.
An experience open to the public throughout December
Beyond its visual impact, the ice Nativity scene was conceived as a spiritual and sensory experience. The tour includes significant religious elements, such as the presence of the Virgin Untier of Knots, and is integrated with seasonal activities, including the traditional Christmas novenas.
According to the organizers, the goal is to offer a space for reflection that connects the message of the birth of Jesus with an innovative artistic proposal. The contrast between the cold ice and the warm meaning of Christmas reinforces the symbolic nature of the display.
The Nativity scene will be open to the public every day throughout December, starting at 6:00 p.m., making it an ideal activity to enjoy with family or friends.